FAQ
TL;DR: For Baofeng UV‑82 scanning, "Below 130 MHz you won't go down" and scanning can jump to 176.987 MHz. Use a programming cable, scan within the radio’s supported VHF/UHF bands, use LiveATC for airports, or get a scanner for airband AM. This FAQ is for new UV‑82 owners who want listen‑only scanning. [Elektroda, sp3ots, post #17662460]
Why it matters: It helps you quickly set up receive‑only scanning, avoid airband roadblocks, and pick workable listening options.
Quick Facts
- UV‑82 receive coverage: VHF 136–174 MHz and UHF 400–520 MHz (typical spec). “Program only within supported bands.” “UV‑82 Baofeng manual”
- Modulation: FM only; airband uses AM, so UV‑82 won’t demodulate aircraft comms. [Elektroda, gumisie, post #17662903]
- Memory capacity: Approx. 128 channels for storing favorite frequencies. “UV‑82 Baofeng manual”
- Edge case: Trying to go below 130 MHz can cause a jump to 176.987 MHz during scanning. [Elektroda, sp3ots, post #17662460]
- Can’t receive EPWA on UV‑82? Listen to Warsaw Okęcie via LiveATC online instead. [Elektroda, c2h5oh, post #17661363]
How do I enter and save a frequency on a Baofeng UV‑82?
Use VFO mode to enter a valid VHF/UHF frequency, then store it to memory. How‑To: 1. Switch to VFO. 2. Key in a frequency within 136–174 or 400–520 MHz. 3. Open the MEM‑CH function and write it to an empty channel. Switch to MR mode to scan saved channels later. “UV‑82 Baofeng manual”
Why can’t my UV‑82 accept 128.800 MHz for Warsaw Okęcie?
128.800 MHz sits below the UV‑82’s VHF receive range. The radio accepts only frequencies within its published VHF/UHF bands, so the software reports out‑of‑range when you try to program 128.800 MHz. “UV‑82 Baofeng manual”
Does the Baofeng UV‑82 receive the aircraft band (AM)?
No. The UV‑82 uses FM, and the airband uses AM. As one expert notes, “the air band is AM and these Baofengs do not support it.” To monitor aircraft, use a scanner with AM airband support. [Elektroda, gumisie, post #17662903]
What does the “Frequency … is out of supported range” error mean?
Your programming software blocked a frequency your radio cannot handle. This happens when you attempt to enter values outside the radio’s defined VHF/UHF ranges. The error shown for 128.800 MHz is a typical example. [Elektroda, Marcino DJ, #17662362]
Is a programming cable worth it versus keypad entry?
Yes. A cable streamlines large channel lists and reduces keypad mistakes. One user reported, “No problem, I programmed a few pieces for hams and 12 pieces in the company,” after switching to a cable. [Elektroda, sSmall, post #17655101]
How do I scan the channels I saved?
Switch to MR (memory) mode, select the bank with your saved channels, and start the radio’s scan function. Ensure channels are valid and squelch is set correctly so the scan doesn’t stall on noise. “UV‑82 Baofeng manual”
How do I delete factory or old channels?
Open the DEL‑CH function, choose the stored channel you want to remove, and confirm deletion. Then re‑write the channel using MEM‑CH as needed. The UV‑82 stores approximately 128 channels in total. “UV‑82 Baofeng manual”
Where can I listen to Okęcie (EPWA) if my UV‑82 can’t?
Use LiveATC’s EPWA feed to hear Warsaw Okęcie operations over the internet. It’s a practical workaround when your handheld can’t tune or demodulate airband channels. [Elektroda, c2h5oh, post #17661363]
Why do I hear almost nothing in a rural area?
Local activity varies, and some channels are quiet. One user in a village reported hearing only one of 17 programmed frequencies, even with an extra antenna. Consider online feeds or a dedicated scanner for more coverage. [Elektroda, Marcino DJ, #17664928]
What frequencies can the UV‑82 actually scan?
Stick to its supported bands: VHF around 136–174 MHz and UHF around 400–520 MHz. Program only within these limits to avoid range errors and ensure predictable scanning behavior. “UV‑82 Baofeng manual”
Why does scanning jump to 176.987 MHz when I start below 130 MHz?
That’s a known edge case. Attempting to force scanning below 130 MHz can cause the radio to wrap into higher frequencies, such as 176.987 MHz. [Elektroda, sp3ots, post #17662460]
I only want to listen to airband—what starter scanner fits?
Choose a scanner that explicitly lists airband coverage and AM demodulation. The Uniden UBC355CLT is marketed as a wideband receiver that includes airband coverage, making it suitable for airport listening. “Uniden UBC355CLT product page”
Or maybe someone will give me a link to a page or pages where, for example, I will listen to Okecie Airport, etc ... 
